Subject: Science

Grade Level: Grade 4

Objective:
1. Identify the different types of soil
2. Use simple equipment to compare the different types of soil as to its ability to hold
water

Learning within the curriculum:

1. The topic of "Plant Growth" relates to the current lesson as it discusses how
different types of soil affect the growth of plants, emphasizing the importance of soil
composition in agriculture and gardening.
2. The lesson on "Water Cycle" connects to the current topic by illustrating how soil
interacts with water, which is essential for understanding how different soils retain
moisture and affect water availability for plants.

Learning across the curriculum:

1. In "Mathematics," students can learn about measurement by calculating the
amount of water each type of soil can hold, thereby integrating math skills with
scientific inquiry.
2. In "English," students can write a report on their findings regarding the types of
soil and their water retention abilities, which helps develop their writing and analytical
skills while reinforcing their understanding of the science topic.

Engage:
Teaching Strategy: Cooperative Learning
Instructional Materials: Pictures of different soil types, large poster paper
Energizer 1: “Soil Showdown” - Students will be divided into small groups and will
be shown pictures of different types of soil (sand, clay, loam). Each group will have
to guess and discuss the characteristics of each type of soil.
Energizer 2: “Soil Feel Challenge” - Without any materials, students will close their
eyes and describe their favorite soil type using only their words. This inclusive
activity allows all students to participate regardless of resources.

Explore:
Activities
Activity 1: “Water Retention Experiment”
Teaching Strategy: Inquiry-Based Learning
Materials: Clear plastic cups, different soil samples (sand, clay, loam), water
Significance: This activity allows students to observe and compare how different
soils absorb water, promoting hands-on learning.

Instructions:
1. Fill each cup with a different type of soil.
2. Pour the same amount of water into each cup.
3. Observe and record how much water each soil type retains over time.

Rubrics:
- Observation and recording accuracy: 5 pts.
- Participation and teamwork: 5 pts.
- Presentation of findings: 5 pts.

Assessment Questions:
1. Which type of soil held the most water?
2. What was the least effective soil type in retaining water?
3. How did you feel working in your group during the experiment?
Activity 2: “Soil Comparison Chart”
Teaching Strategy: Project-Based Learning
Materials: Chart paper, markers, soil samples
Significance: This activity encourages students to synthesize their findings and
present them in a visual format, enhancing understanding through collaboration.

Instructions:
1. In groups, create a comparison chart that includes soil type, characteristics, and
water retention ability.
2. Use soil samples to illustrate each type on the chart.
3. Present your chart to the class, explaining your findings.
Rubrics:
- Clarity and organization of the chart: 5 pts.
- Teamwork and collaboration: 5 pts.
- Presentation skills: 5 pts.

Assessment Questions:
1. What are the main characteristics of each soil type?
2. How does the chart help in understanding soil properties?
3. What new information did you learn from your peers’ presentations?

Explain:
Activity 1 - The objective of identifying different soil types is crucial for understanding
how they interact with water and support plant life. Recognizing the characteristics of
each soil type helps students predict how they will behave in different environmental
conditions.
Activity 2 - Understanding soil composition aids in grasping broader concepts in
ecology, such as the role of soil in the ecosystem and its impact on water cycles.
Activity 3 - By analyzing soil properties, students can connect their findings to real-
world agricultural practices, enhancing their appreciation for environmental science.

Elaborate:
Teaching Strategy: Experiential Learning
1. Task: Have students conduct a small garden project using the different soil types
to grow seeds and observe growth over time.
2. Task: Organize a field trip to a local farm or garden where students can see real-
life applications of soil types and their effects on plant growth.
Discussion: After completing the tasks, hold a class discussion about the
importance of choosing the right soil for different plants and how this knowledge
applies to their community and environment.

Evaluate:
Teaching Strategy: Formative Assessment

Questions:
1. What are the three main types of soil, and how do they differ in water retention?
2. Why is it important to understand soil types in relation to plant growth?
3. How can the knowledge of soil types contribute to sustainable farming practices?

For Higher Order Thinking Skills:

Questions:
1. How might climate change affect the water retention capabilities of different soil
types?
2. If you were to design a garden, how would you choose the soil based on your
knowledge?
3. What experiments could you conduct to further explore the properties of soil?

Answers:
1. Climate change can lead to increased drought or flooding, impacting soil structure
and its ability to retain water, which may require adjustments in farming practices.
2. I would analyze the plants I want to grow and choose soil that matches their needs
for water retention and nutrients, ensuring a healthy garden.
3. I could test the effects of different additives (like compost) on soil retention or
compare soil from different locations to see how they perform under similar
conditions.

Assignment:
1. Write a short essay on the importance of soil types in agriculture, including
examples from the lesson and any observations made during the activities. This will
reinforce their understanding and ability to communicate scientific concepts.